A patient has been admitted to the coronary care unit (CCU) with an ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The patient is restless, anxious, has a blood pressure of 86/40 mm Hg, and a heart rate of 132 beats/min.
What is the priority problem for this patient?
Anxiety
Acute pain
Decreased cardiac output
Stress management
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Anxiety is a common response to the stress of hospitalization and illness, especially in the context of a serious condition like ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).
However, while anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms and should be addressed, it is not the primary problem in this scenario.
Choice B rationale
Acute pain is a common symptom of STEMI, as the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen. However, the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate readings suggest a more immediate concern related to the cardiovascular system.
Choice C rationale
Decreased cardiac output is likely the priority problem for this patient. The patient’s low blood pressure (86/40 mm Hg) and high heart rate (132 beats/min) suggest that the heart is not pumping enough blood to meet the body’s needs, which is a direct consequence of the STEMI1. This can lead to organ failure and other serious complications if not addressed promptly.
Choice D rationale
Stress management is an important aspect of long-term care for patients with heart disease, as chronic stress can contribute to further heart damage. However, in the acute phase of a STEMI, the focus is on stabilizing the patient’s condition and preventing complications.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Exercise electrocardiography, also known as a stress test, is not typically the first-line emergent procedure for a patient with an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This test is often used to diagnose coronary artery disease, but it is not typically used to treat an AMI5.
Choice B rationale
A computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest with contrast could be used to visualize the heart and surrounding structures, but it is not typically the first-line emergent procedure for a patient with an AMI5.
Choice C rationale
An echocardiogram could be used to visualize the heart’s structure and function, but it is not typically the first-line emergent procedure for a patient with an AMI5.
Choice D rationale
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the correct answer. This procedure is often used as an emergent treatment for an AMI. It involves using a catheter to place a small structure called a stent to open up blood vessels in the heart that have been narrowed by plaque buildup.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a hole in the wall separating the two lower chambers of the heart. While it can cause cyanosis, it would not typically cause cyanosis only during crying or after feeding.
Choice B rationale
An Atrioventricular canal (AVC) defect is a combination of heart problems resulting in a defect in the center of the heart. While it can cause cyanosis, it would not typically cause cyanosis only during crying or after feeding.
Choice C rationale
Tetralogy of Fallot is a rare condition caused by a combination of four heart defects that are present at birth. These defects, which affect the structure of the heart, cause oxygen-poor blood to flow out of the heart and into the rest of the body. Infants and children with Tetralogy of Fallot usually have blue-tinged skin because their blood doesn’t carry enough oxygen. This is often more noticeable during episodes of crying or feeding.
Choice D rationale
An Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a hole in the wall between the two upper chambers of your heart (atria). The condition is present at birth (congenital). Small defects might be found by chance and never cause a problem. Some small atrial septal defects close during infancy or early childhood. While it can cause cyanosis, it would not typically cause cyanosis only during crying or after feeding.
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